The Role of Traditional Leaders in Conflict Resolution among the Tribes of Koh-e-Suleman

Abstract

This study examined the role of traditional leaders in conflict resolution within the Baluch tribes of Koh-e-Suleman, with a particular focus on their perceived effectiveness in promoting justice and maintaining social order. A total of 384 respondents were surveyed, and the results indicate strong community support for the Tumandari system. Specifically, 67.39% of respondents strongly believed that traditional leaders are effective in promoting justice for all, while 50% perceived the system as moderately effective in maintaining social order.
The study also compares the effectiveness of the Tumandari system with formal state courts. The findings reveal a significant lack of trust in the state judiciary, with 75.31% of respondents rating state courts as ineffective or very ineffective in conflict resolution. In contrast, traditional leaders were overwhelmingly viewed as more effective and trusted, highlighting the gap between formal legal institutions and community-based governance.
The study concludes that traditional leaders enjoy higher levels of trust and perceived effectiveness compared to government courts. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the government should invest in training local leaders and reforming state courts to foster greater public confidence in formal legal institutions. Future research should consider employing a mixed-methods approach to further explore the dynamics of traditional leadership and its integration with modern legal systems.